Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki from Subway features tender grilled chicken glazed with a sweet onion teriyaki sauce, topped with fresh lettuce and tomatoes, all nestled in a soft, freshly baked sub roll, delivering a savory and slightly sweet flavor with a satisfying crunch.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs
- Baking sheet (for sub rolls)
- Oven (for baking rolls)
- Serving tray or plate
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 small sweet onion, finely chopped
- 2 sub rolls
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensures even grilling and tender texture for the Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki. Freshly chopped sweet onion is key to achieving the authentic sweetness in the teriyaki sauce, balancing the savory soy and tangy rice vinegar flavors. Measure ingredients precisely, especially cornstarch and water, to create the perfect sauce consistency without it becoming too thick or runny. Using a grill or grill pan helps develop a slightly smoky char, enhancing the dish's overall flavor profile. Your homemade Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki from Subway copycat menu will deliver the same savory and slightly sweet satisfaction as the original.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, black pepper, and finely chopped sweet onion to make the teriyaki marinade/sauce.
- Reserve half of the sauce for glazing; pour the other half over the chicken breasts in a bowl or zip-top bag; marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Grill the marinated chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, until cooked through.
- In a saucepan, bring the reserved teriyaki sauce to a simmer.
- Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to form a slurry; stir into the simmering sauce.
- Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat.
- Preheat oven and warm sub rolls on a baking sheet for a few minutes until soft and slightly toasted.
- Slice grilled chicken into strips.
- Place chicken strips on the warm sub rolls.
- Drizzle thickened teriyaki sauce over the chicken.
- Top with shredded lettuce and sliced tomatoes.
- Serve immediately on a tray or plate.
Substitution
Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki from Subway copycat menu can be easily adapted if you don't have all the exact ingredients in your kitchen. You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer juicier meat or use apple cider vinegar instead of rice vinegar for a slightly different tang. If fresh ginger or garlic isn't available, ground ginger powder or garlic powder works in a pinch but use sparingly to avoid overpowering the sauce. For a gluten-free option, replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos without compromising the umami flavor. Your grilled chicken will still be delicious and flavorful with these simple ingredient swaps.
Tips
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to ensure it absorbs the full flavor of the sweet onion teriyaki sauce, enhancing tenderness and taste. Use a medium-high heat on your grill or grill pan to cook the chicken evenly without drying it out, aiming for an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC). When thickening the reserved sauce, stir the cornstarch slurry continuously to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth glaze perfect for drizzling over the chicken. Warm the sub rolls just before assembling to maintain their softness and complement the juicy grilled chicken and fresh toppings for the best texture contrast.
Nutritions
Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki from Subway offers a balanced nutritional profile, featuring lean protein from the grilled chicken breasts which supports muscle repair and growth. The teriyaki sauce, made with soy sauce, honey, and brown sugar, provides carbohydrates for energy but also contains added sugars that you should consume in moderation. Fresh lettuce and tomatoes add essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber that aid in digestion and overall health. Your meal includes a soft sub roll that supplies additional carbohydrates, making this sandwich a satisfying option for a nutritious, flavorful meal.
Storage
Store your leftover Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Keep the grilled chicken, teriyaki sauce, and vegetables separate to prevent sogginess, and reheat the chicken and sauce gently in a microwave or on the stovetop before assembling. For the sub rolls, wrap them in foil and warm in the oven at 350degF (175degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore their soft and slightly toasted texture.
Variation or Alternatives
For variation, swap sweet onion with caramelized shallots to add a deeper, sweeter flavor to the teriyaki sauce. You might also use grilled chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat and enhanced richness. Instead of sub rolls, try serving the chicken on sushi rice or in a lettuce wrap for a lower-carb option. Customize your sandwich with avocado slices or pickled cucumbers to add creaminess or tanginess, balancing the sweet and savory notes.
Allergies
Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki contains soy sauce and sesame oil, both common allergens that can cause reactions in individuals sensitive to soy or sesame. Your allergy risk may also increase due to the presence of wheat in the sub rolls and corn in the cornstarch. It's important to check ingredient labels carefully and consult with your allergist before consumption.
Why this recipe?
Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki from Subway combines tender chicken strips with a savory teriyaki glaze, topped with fresh vegetables and a sweet onion sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors that appeals to many taste buds. The sandwich's unique combination of sweet and savory elements provides a satisfying taste experience that is both indulgent and refreshing. Making a copycat version allows you to customize ingredients to your preference while enjoying the restaurant-quality flavor at home. Your homemade iteration can capture the essence of this popular menu item, delivering a delicious and cost-effective alternative.